Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Malaga gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from AGP to the city takes roughly 50 minutes by local transport, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
A few things to sort out before you leave AGP:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Spain. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Malaga takes about 50 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Malaga, we’d suggest Alcazaba of Málaga and Picasso Museum Málaga. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside AGP, you can spend time at Sala VIP Lounge (AGP) or try Aelia Duty Free. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
In Malaga
If you make it into town, El Pimpi is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try MarisquerÃa Casa Vicente.
Inside AGP
If you’re staying in the terminal, La Taberna del Jamón is your main option. Starbucks works too if you want something quick.
Getting from AGP to Malaga
From AGP, the local transport gets you to Malaga in around 50 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 70 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Malaga layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Malaga.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at AGP aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Malaga itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
WiFi at AGP should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Spain and you’re good to go.
Need a Nap? Options at AGP
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at AGP, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Malaga exploring the streets or relaxing at AGP, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.